IL-6 mRNA expression was markedly increased in the livers of patients with NASH than in those with simple steatosis (P < 0.005) or normal biopsies (P < 0.010). There was a positive correlation between hepatocyte IL-6 mRNA expression and degree of inflammation, stage of fibrosis, plasma IL-6 levels, and degree of systemic insulin resistance. This evidence concerns the gene IL6 and steatosis.